SRINAGAR: Al Afnan Educational Institute hosted a spiritually enriching event, Shaani Ramadhan, featuring a Husn-e-Qirat and Naat competition at its campus in Maloora, Shalteng, Srinagar. Organized to honor the sanctity of the holy month of Ramadhan, the event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students.
The event was graced by Chief Guest Mushtaq Ahmad Canny, Vice President of PSAJK, alongside other distinguished dignitaries, including Majid Bhat (Divisional Head), Faisal Islam Mir (General Secretary), Bilal Bhat (President, PSA Srinagar) and Khursheed Mahajan (Advisor, PSA Srinagar). The presence of parents, faculty members and students added to the grandeur of the occasion, making it a truly memorable event.
A total of 30 students, both boys and girls, participated in the Qirat and Naat competitions, demonstrating their deep understanding of Quranic recitation and Naat-e-Shariff. Their soulful performances and melodious voices captivated the audience.
Winners of the Qirat Competition: 1st Position: Mantasha Firdous (Class 7th), 2nd Position: Seerat Un Nisa (Class 7th), 3rd Position: Qurat Ul Ain (Class 5th)
Winners of the Naat Competition: 1st Position: Navsheeba Sajad (Class 8th), 2nd Position: Rabiya Jan (Class 7th) & Adeen Khursheed (Class 7th) (Tied), 3rd Position: Mursaleen Mushtaq (Class 8th)
The event was beautifully anchored by Miss Suman Manzoor, who ensured smooth coordination and engaged the audience throughout the program.
The performances were judged by an esteemed panel, including Mufti Ayaz Ahmad Qasimi, Maulana Sajad Ahmad Sheikh and renowned educationist Mushtaq Ahmad Canny. The judges evaluated the participants based on pronunciation, voice control and spiritual impact, offering valuable feedback to encourage the students.
In addition to the competitions, students also delivered insightful speeches on the importance of Ramadhan, the significance of fasting and the blessings of Laylat al-Qadr. Their words highlighted the values of patience, self-discipline and devotion during this sacred month. The program also featured group recitations of nasheeds and naats, adding a harmonious touch to the event.
A proud moment for the school came when Qamoos Showkat, a Class 2nd student of Al Afnan Educational Institute, was felicitated by the school administration for his outstanding achievement in sports. He secured the top-winning position in the National Taekwondo Championship 2025, recently held in Hyderabad.
Qamoos Showkat’s victory brought pride to the entire Jammu and Kashmir region. His success was also a moment of honor for his parents, Showkat Ahmad Bhat and his coach, Syed Sujat Shah.
Speaking on the occasion, Al Afnan Educational Institute Principal Tahir Ahmad Wagay expressed his pride in the students' performances, stating "This event is not just a competition but a way to connect our younger generation with the teachings of the Holy Quran and Islam. The way our students recited today was truly commendable. We are proud of their efforts and will continue to nurture both their spiritual and academic growth. We are also focusing on moral education because this is very important in today's day-to-day life. Along with academic excellence, building strong moral values in our students is essential for shaping a responsible and ethical society.
Adding to our pride, our student Qamoos Showkat has made us immensely proud by securing the top position in the National Taekwondo Championship 2025, held in Hyderabad. His dedication and hard work have earned him a place at the international level, which is a remarkable achievement for both him and our school. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for his future endeavors."
The participants expressed their excitement and gratitude for being a part of such a memorable occasion. One of the winners, Mantasha Firdous, shared "I am grateful for the opportunity to recite the Quran in front of such esteemed scholars and guests. This event has inspired me to improve my recitation and deepen my understanding of the Quran."
Another participant, Navsheeba Sajad, who won first place in the Naat competition, said "Winning this competition is an honor, but more than that, I feel blessed to have expressed my love for the Prophet (PBUH) through naat recitation."
The event concluded with a heartfelt dua (prayer) for peace, prosperity and the well-being of all students. The organizing committee extended their gratitude to the participants, judges and guests, promising to continue fostering spiritual and educational excellence in the future.
Al Afnan Educational Institute’s Shaani Ramadhan program was a celebration of faith, knowledge and moral values. The institute is dedicated to teaching students integrity, kindness and responsibility, helping them grow into good and responsible individuals for a better future.
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

I will always remember Dr. Priya Ranjan not only as the Chairman of JK Monitor, but as a mentor, guide and elder brother whose kindness profoundly shaped my life and work. Write a tribute at In Loving Memory · Dr. Priya Ranjan
When he appointed me Editor-in-Chief of JK Monitor, he never treated me as an employee, but as a younger brother, offering warmth, trust, respect and invaluable guidance. I will always be grateful for his faith in me, his encouragement and the lessons he shared.
Dr. Ranjan was a rare and noble soul—humble, compassionate, intellectually brilliant and always willing to help others. A visionary thinker, he believed in using knowledge and abilities to make a meaningful difference. His influence lives on through the people he guided, the work he inspired and the countless lives he touched.
For me, he will always be the elder brother who believed in me and guided me with affection. I will cherish his kindness and lessons forever. May his soul rest in eternal peace. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.
(Ajmer Alam Wani)

